Normandy in 3 weeks' time - would you?

[shortsaint]

Just that really. In between work commitments we can go for one week first week of school hols. Ferry to Cherbourg and then an air B and B for a week. Self catering.

We love France - would you do it? Would the locals hate us for going?

I would definitely go to Normandy. However I would book the Portsmouth to Caen crossing (as I don't think they are running their normal service on the Cherbourg route) and book accommodation through Brittany Ferries too. Usually the ferry works out cheaper when you are booking ferry and accommodation through BF. But then Air B and B is not my thing so hard to give an objective view.

I would have thought the locals in Normandy will be pleased to see you after missing out on tourist income for the past few months.

Yes, I would. Cases in France are much lower than here and ferries are likely to be quiet as so many people are cautious about travelling. Just follow the advice, mask up, wash hands often and SD wherever possible.

Yes, I would go. I cancelled my holiday in the Loire because I want to do things that involve lots of people e.g. chateaux, museums, the zoo, cafes without worrying about a virus. Normandy being quiet countryiside and quiet beaches is different and I would have no problem going on a ferry to get there. Jealous!

Thanks for replies. My friends think I am mad but BF are running at 50% capacity and a cabin is compulsory so I can't see it as bad as going to the pub (for instance!)

I am still a bit confused as to whether we need to self isolate in France on arrival. We would keep ourselves to ourselves but, frankly, I'd need to get to a patisserie at some point!

I'd do it and we're going to a similar area in August. We're going on Brittany Ferries and their arrangements seem really good. You don't need to quarantine.

Patisseries are a must but I imagine even they will be quiet in Normandy! I thought the self isolation bit was only on return from France but I got really confused tbh.

I would have no problem being in a 50% capacity BF in a cabin. They will be super clean.

As you say, compared with going to the pub or Bournemouth beach it feels like a no-brainer

I'm planning to do it, Scotland dictatorship permitting 😃 I'm going to drive through the tunnel and stay in a hotel. Exciting!

You wouldn't need to self isolate. We are in a different part of France but hings are pretty normal.

Masks are compulsory in some shops - not the supermaket though. Most supermarkets provide gel and sanitiser and paper towels to wipe down your trolley. Hand gel is provided at the entrance. All of our local bakers just ask you to limit it to 2 customers at a time.

Bars and restaurants ask you to wear a mask when you are moving around within the premises.

We used to live in Normandy - it's a lovely part of the country - enjoy!

Just come back from Paris - it helps that DH is a fluent French speaker but they couldn’t have made us feel more welcome and we had a great time. I’d go for it OP.

Thanks. Update - we've just booked a week in ... north Brittany! Travelling over on the ferry to Caen. The owners of the cottage are Brits and chuffed to bits because they lost all their bookings. Feeling a bit apprehensive but also excited...

Thanks. Update - we've just booked a week in ... north Brittany! Travelling over on the ferry to Caen. The owners of the cottage are Brits and chuffed to bits because they lost all their bookings. Feeling a bit apprehensive but also excited...

I’m glad you have booked and hope you have a great time. We are looking forward to our Brittany Ferries trip too.

We've been at our beach house with our dog, kids and ponies in Normandy near Granville for the last month (we live in another area of Normandy). All good, moules frites as good as ever. Everything pretty much as normal.

Chatted to the restaurant owners and they've said they'll be delighted to see the Brits!